Merlin in Connemara

This video showcases efforts to learn more about Merlin in Connemara. Merlin are one of our rarest and most elusive birds of prey in Ireland, and the blanket bogs of Connemara in the west of Ireland is one of the most important places for the species and is designated as a Special Protection Area for Merlin. Despite the designation, there is still a lot to learn about Merlin in this landscape and nationally in order to be able to help conserve their populations. This video documents some of the efforts on behalf of BirdWatch Ireland, the National Parks and Wildlife Service and Galway County Council to improve our undertanding of Merlin populations and their conservation requirements as well as showcasing this special bird in this unique landscape. This video was produced with the support of Galway County Council and the National Parks and Wildlife Service through the Local Biodiversity Action Fund in 2024.